Cheesy Onion Rings Delight

This irresistible recipe for cheesy onion rings stuffed with mozzarella creates a crispy, golden snack that will impress everyone. Double-coated for extra crunch and paired with gooey mozzarella for an indulgent bite, these onion rings are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party treat.

I first created these during a backyard family gathering, and they were such a hit that now even picky eaters ask for seconds.

Ingredients

Main Components

• 1 large onion: sliced into thick rings to ensure sturdy outer layers for stuffing
• 8 mozzarella cheese sticks: firm cheese that melts perfectly without becoming runny
• 1 cup milk: helps the coating stick
• 1 egg: beaten binds the breadcrumbs securely to the onion rings
• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs: adds a unique crunch-factor
• 2 cups cooking oil: ensures thorough frying for golden perfection
• Toothpicks: optional but ideal for securing the cheese filling

Dry Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon baking powder: adds lightness to the coating
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: forms the base of the crispy coating
• 1 teaspoon fine salt: enhances the flavors

How To Make Cheesy Onion Rings Mozzarella

Assemble the Onion Rings:

Pair two slices of onion rings placing a smaller one inside the larger ring to create a gap. Cut mozzarella cheese sticks to fit the space between the rings and secure them with a toothpick to hold everything in place.

Prepare the Coating:

In a bowl mix together all-purpose flour baking powder and fine salt thoroughly. This will be your base dry coating to help breadcrumbs stick. Dip the assembled rings in this mixture ensuring it covers the surfaces evenly and transfer them to a wire rack for a few minutes.

Dip and Double Coat:

Whisk the beaten egg and milk together to create the wet mixture. Coat each ring in the mixture then roll it in Panko bread crumbs ensuring full coverage. For an extra-crispy texture repeat this step for double coating.

Heat the Oil:

Use a deep cooking pot to heat the 2 cups of cooking oil until it reaches around 350°F. Test by dropping a small piece of batter; it should sizzle gently. Avoid overcrowding while frying to maintain even cooking.

Fry the Onion Rings:

Carefully place each prepared onion ring into the heated oil. Fry until golden brown turning occasionally using tongs. This should take approximately 2-4 minutes per side. Once ready place the fried rings on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve Hot:

Serve your cheesy onion rings hot for the ultimate gooey cheese pull experience. Pair with your favorite dip like marinara or ranch for added flavor.

My favorite part of this recipe is slicing the mozzarella to fit the onion rings. It reminds me of childhood games where every piece fits perfectly into its place. My family loves these so much that even birthday celebrations are incomplete without a giant platter of them.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover onion rings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a non-vegetarian twist try adding cooked bacon bits between the onion and cheese layers before frying. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can replace Panko if needed and almond flour works well for the dry coating.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy cheesy onion rings as part of a snack platter with other favorites like potato skins or chicken wings. These pair wonderfully with cold beverages making them great for game nights or casual gatherings.

Experimenting with this recipe is always a delight especially when trying out varied bread crumbs for different textures. The memories of enjoying these fresh out of the pan during picnics will always have a special place in my heart.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the mozzarella from oozing out?

Ensure the onion rings are tightly secured with toothpicks, and the cheese is properly covered with the coating to seal it in during frying.

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack, but ensure they melt well for the best result.

→ What oil is best for frying onion rings?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best for deep-frying due to their high smoke points.

→ How do I make the onion rings extra crispy?

Double-coat the onion rings in the seasoned flour and Panko crumbs, ensuring every surface is well-covered.

→ Can these onion rings be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and coat them in advance, then freeze. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.